Why Texas Rangers have a mind to convert RHP Josh Lindblom to a starter

Dallas Morning News | Apr 1

The Texas Rangers have two reasons for trying demoted right-hander Josh Lindblom as a starter at Triple-A Round Rock.

The first is that more innings could help Lindblom fix the problems that arose this spring. The Rangers did the same thing with left-hander Michael Kirkman after his poor spring in 2012.

Lindblom could not keep his pitches down in the zone. The numbers — 6.10 ERA and .333 opponents batting average in 10 1/3 innings — showed Lindblom cannot pitch effectively high in the zone.

Lindblom has harbored ambitions of starting since filling that role during his first three seasons (2008-10) in the Los Angeles Dodgers minor league system. He has the required four pitches, including a changeup, to be a starter. Starting at Round Rock would not preclude Lindblom from returning to the Rangers as a reliever.

“He’s got a durable frame and is interested in starting,” general manager Jon Daniels said. “At the same time, we know he’s got a track record in a setup role.”